Wednesday, May 31, 2017

How to Lift Things Safely

People
whose jobs regularly require them to lift heavy objects are at risk of wearing
their backs out over time. On the positive side, they are usually familiar with
safety protocol and can avoid the sudden, dramatic injuries people are thinking
of when they talk about “throwing out their backs.” For those who do not
regularly pick up heavy things, we want to provide some reminders of how to
minimize their chance of hurting themselves.

The
simplest part is to make inquiries about using a dolly. But if carrying an
object is truly required, you would do well to get a feel for the object’s
weight distribution before applying force to it. Stand as close to the object
as possible, squat down in front of it, and propel yourself upward with your
legs. This should be a steady movement, as should all movements made while
carrying the object. The object should be kept at rib-level, and you should
rotate your entire body while going around corners. It is inadvisable to twist
the torso independently of the legs.

When
lowering the object, try to place it somewhere it can be picked up again
easily. Keep your head vertical when squatting back down, and get back up
slowly after letting go.